All of this helps to reposition social media in the mind of a young person as less of a social necessity, and more of an aspect of contemporary society that may or may not align with their family values. Above all else, it sends a clear message – that reducing time spent on social media opens young minds up to all kinds of other positive experiences, without the risk of cyberbullying.
When it is time to respond to or report behaviour
Haileybury is committed to creating a school environment where every student feels safe and supported to be their best and brightest self. We have zero tolerance for bullying in any form, with a range of protocols and policies in place to support students and parents if they are facing — or feel as though they could be facing — any form of bullying, either at school or online.
Knowing when to respond or report behaviour is vital, as it means your child can start getting the support they need to feel safe as soon as possible. An important first step is to help your child to recognise when bullying is happening or has happened, and even give them some initial strategies to try. “Often when a child or young person speaks up, they have tried some strategies themselves and want additional help from you,” Neringa says. “So, responding and talking through some strategies with your child can be a good next step. If the bullying behaviour continues, reporting the bullying is important so that your child is further supported. Report the bullying behaviour earlier rather than waiting for it to become worse.”
With student wellbeing forming a key foundation for the Haileybury school experience, you can always contact the school for extra guidance, information or support. Any shift in your child’s behaviour could be a sign that things are not going well for them at that moment, and addressing potential bullying behaviour could help them get back to their best self.
How to support your child in managing friendship challenges
Friendships challenges are a normal part of a child’s growth, but that does not make them any less difficult for a young person to deal with. It is important to acknowledge that challenges like these can make your child feel distressed. Being able to listen and provide support also gives you the opportunity to recognise whether these challenges are sporadic disagreements or conflicts, or a sign of ongoing bullying.
“If the behaviour is unkind, disrespectful, is ongoing and your child feels powerless, it is likely to be bullying,” says Neringa. “Ask your child about what has been happening, describe the behaviour, how it makes them feel, and if it appears to be bullying discuss it with someone at school for further support.”
Addressing behaviour if your child is responsible for bullying
Knowing when to recognise if their child is the one doing the bullying, rather than being bullied, is just as important for establishing a safe school community. While it might be difficult to acknowledge our children are potentially causing harm to others, it does provide an opportunity for growth and understanding.
Diane recommends taking a gentle, open approach in addressing this kind of behaviour.